Ep.1/ Coaching vs Therapy: Boundaries, Ethics & How to Choose (w/ Christina Theo)

Written By DeAnna Avis
 

Therapy and coaching turf-wars are muddying the water -confidence. This podcast helps clear the mystique and confusion so you can make an informed decision about the support that is right for you.

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When do you need a therapist - and when is a coach the better fit?

In this episode of Reimagining Therapy, I’m joined by Christina Theo, a UK-based coaching psychologist who specialises in chronic pain, trauma-aware practice, and supervision for practitioners.

Together we unpack the real-world overlap between coaching and therapy, where the boundaries are, and how clients can choose ethical, effective support without getting burned by hype or scarcity tactics.

 

Ep.1/

coaching vs. therapy: boundariesethics & how to choose

 

We cover:

  • Coaching vs therapy (and the messy middle): how coaching psychologists work, why “pure coaching” isn’t the only model, and when dipping into the past is appropriate

  • Ethics & supervision: why supervision matters, what it actually is, and red flags to watch for

  • Credentials vs competence: BPS vs ICF vs EMCC - what these bodies do (and don’t) guarantee

  • Neurodivergence & chronic pain: brain-based pain, burnout, and practical ways to pace recovery

  • Sales without manipulation: saying no to faux scarcity and high-pressure tactics while still structuring offers that work

  • Culture & firstborn pressure: collectivist vs individualist upbringing, people-pleasing, and unlearning performance-as-worth

  • How to choose a coach/therapist: a simple checklist you can use today

Who this is for: People who are on a healing journey and want to understand if they need coaching or therapy, those who experience chronic pain, practitioners navigating the therapy/coaching borderlands, and anyone who wants evidence-based help without the smoke and mirrors.

Simple checklist: choosing ethical support:

  • Do they offer supervision (and log it)?

  • Can they explain their approach in plain English with a clear evidence base?

  • Do they give you space to ask questions before buying - without pressure?

  • Is their pricing/format transparent (no faux scarcity, no bait-and-switch)?

  • Do their posts/comments show respectful, thoughtful engagement?

If this episode helped, then like / subscribe and share it with someone who’s weighing up coaching vs. therapy.

Guest: Christina theo, coaching psychologist

Keep in touch with Christina on LinkedIn and Substack.

 
DeAnna Avis